VC10X - UC Berkeley's Startup Accelerator - Caroline Winnett, Executive Director, Berkeley SkyDeck

This VC10X podcast episode interviews Caroline Winnett, Executive Director of Berkeley SkyDeck, a startup accelerator. The discussion covers SkyDeck's structure, including its unique partnership with UC Berkeley where half the fund carry is donated back to the university, its selection process (receiving nearly 5,000 applications annually), and its support for founders from diverse backgrounds and geographical locations. Winnett details how SkyDeck leverages UC Berkeley's vast network for mentorship and resources, emphasizing a hands-on, bespoke approach to supporting startups. Listeners learn about SkyDeck's funding model and the criteria used to evaluate applicants, gaining insights into a successful university-affiliated accelerator program.